The summer months in Colorado bring us an abundance of time outdoors spent hiking and camping but can also give us pesky bug bites and bee stings. If someone receives a large number of bee stings, if the stings are in the mouth or throat, or if a person experiences shortness of breath or throat swelling after any insect bite or sting, call 911 for emergency assistance. Otherwise, follow these suggestions:

• Quickly remove any part of a bee stinger left in the skin.

• Cleanse the area with soap and water.

• In the case of a tick bite, use caution removing the tick

from under the skin so that no part of the tick body is left there.

• Apply ice to the area to relieve pain.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used.

• Seek medical care if pain, redness or swelling worsen.

Good Day Pharmacy is your local Colorado pharmacy choice and we are always here to help you and your family. We carry OTC products, offer prescription delivery services, travel vaccinations, and more. Stop by and visit our pharmacy locations in Eaton, Fort Collins, Greeley, Johnstown, Longmont, Loveland, Johnstown, Wellington, and Yuma!

Source: Journal of the American Medical Association